As “transformative” work begins along I-35 in central Austin, a local transportation organization has announced a program providing financial assistance for impacted businesses.

The details

Movability, a Central Texas transportation management association, is offering Austin-based employers up to $7,500 to support sustainable mobility options. Businesses can use the funds for things such as:

• Customized commute consulting
• Subsidized carpooling for employees
• Added multimodal infrastructure such as bike parking

The initiative is intended to challenge local businesses to find vehicle-alternatives amid long-term construction, according to the organization.

Applications will be open from Feb. 5-March 6. Those interested can find more information here.

Some context

The Texas Department of Transportation broke ground on its I-35 Capital Express Central project Oct. 30, a $4.5 billion infrastructure project that will dramatically change the lane configuration of the Central Austin thoroughfare.

The decade-long project is expected to displace nearly 60 local businesses.

The first extended road closure along I-35 was announced by TxDOT on Dec. 2, impacting the northbound I-35 bypass at Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard through early 2025.